City of Columbia selected to receive additional funding to continue the Youth Climate Action Fund program supported by Bloomberg Philanthropies
March 18, 2025
*Deadline Extended*
The City of Columbia has been awarded an additional $100,000 from Bloomberg Philanthropies to extend the Youth Climate Action Fund microgrant program for another year. Building on the success of the initial $50,000 in funding received in the summer of 2024, the City continues to address the urgency of climate action. This initiative, launched by the Office of the Mayor, is facilitated by the Climate Protection Action Committee (CPAC).
According to Bloomberg Philanthropies over 60% of young people do not feel as though their government is doing enough to avoid climate catastrophes. The goal of this program is to fund youth-led and youth-targeted environmental and sustainably focused projects.
During the first round of funding, following an open call for applications, nine projects and initiatives were selected. Over a five-month period, these projects worked to address and target key areas of the City’s Climate Action Plan such as but not limited to: stormwater drain systems, reduced emissions, education, and more. Grantees adhered to additional reporting requirements set by Bloomberg Philanthropies and the City to ensure responsible fund management.
The City of Columbia is now accepting applications for the next round of microgrants to support youth-led and youth-focused environmental sustainability projects. Current grant recipients, past applicants who did not receive funding, and first-time applicants are encouraged to apply. For more information on the requirements, restrictions, and application guidelines please visit the Columbia’s Youth Climate Action Fund webpage. Application will open Monday, January 27 and will close Monday, March 31. Grantees will be announced on Tuesday, April 22, on Earth Day!
The Youth Climate Action Fund provides both technical and monetary support for projects and initiatives that aim to leave a lasting impact in their community. Through this program, the City of Columbia has secured $150,000 in total funding to support these projects over the course of a year.
